What is the Anxiety Sensitivity Index (ASI)?

The ASI is a self-report measure that assesses fear of anxiety-related sensations arising from beliefs that these sensations have harmful consequences. It measures anxiety sensitivity, which is considered a risk factor for panic disorder and other anxiety disorders.

Who developed the Anxiety Sensitivity Index and when?

The ASI was originally developed by Reiss, Peterson, Gursky, and McNally in 1986. It has since been revised and refined by various researchers, with the most commonly used version being the ASI-16.

What type of tool is the Anxiety Sensitivity Index?

It is a self-report questionnaire designed to measure individual differences in anxiety sensitivity.

What does the Anxiety Sensitivity Index assess?

• Fear of physical sensations (racing heart, shortness of breath, trembling)
• Fear of cognitive symptoms (mental confusion, inability to concentrate)
• Fear of publicly observable anxiety reactions (appearing nervous, shaky)
• Catastrophic interpretations of anxiety symptoms
• Beliefs about harmful consequences of anxiety sensations

How many items and what format?

16 items, rated on a 5-point scale from 0 (very little) to 4 (very much). The scale measures how much individuals agree with statements about fear of anxiety-related sensations.

How is the Anxiety Sensitivity Index scored?

Items are summed to create a total score ranging from 0-64. Higher scores indicate greater anxiety sensitivity. The scale also provides subscale scores for three domains: Physical Concerns, Mental Concerns, and Social Concerns.

Are there versions of the Anxiety Sensitivity Index?

Yes, there are several versions including the original ASI, ASI-R (Revised), and ASI-3. This assessment uses the 16-item version which is widely used in clinical and research settings.

Who can use the Anxiety Sensitivity Index?

The ASI is intended for adolescents and adults. It's particularly useful for individuals with anxiety disorders, panic disorder, or those at risk for developing anxiety-related conditions.

What are the strengths of the Anxiety Sensitivity Index?

• Strong psychometric properties with good reliability and validity
• Useful for identifying individuals at risk for panic disorder
• Provides insight into cognitive aspects of anxiety
• Helpful for treatment planning and monitoring progress
• Well-validated across diverse populations

Clinical Applications

The ASI is valuable for:

• Screening for panic disorder risk
• Treatment planning for anxiety disorders
• Monitoring treatment progress
• Research on anxiety sensitivity
• Understanding interoceptive awareness and fear